Restore Your Truck’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 2015-2016 Chevrolet Colorado running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light? These are classic signs that the brain of your engine—the Engine Control Module (ECM)—may be failing. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can cause a cascade of frustrating issues, from poor fuel economy to a no-start condition. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a problem that affects your truck’s core performance and safety.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and high costs out of the equation. Before this module ships, our experts will program it with the latest official GM software, tailored specifically to your truck’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures seamless communication between all your vehicle’s systems, restoring the precise engine management it had from the factory.
A Technician’s Notebook: The No-Start Colorado
A 2015 Colorado 3.6L was towed into my bay last month. The owner had spent weeks chasing what he thought was a fuel pump issue. The truck would crank but never fire up. After confirming fuel pressure and spark were good, I hooked up my professional scan tool. The ECM wasn’t communicating at all—a classic U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM) code was stored in other modules. The original ECM had an internal processor failure. Instead of a costly trip to the dealer for a new module and programming, we ordered a VIN-programmed unit just like this one. It arrived, we installed it in under 20 minutes, performed a quick security relearn, and the truck fired right up. The customer saved hundreds and was back on the road the same day.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine computer needs attention. Look out for these common signs and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs):
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with no clear cause.
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Rough idling, stalling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifting erratically or harshly.
- ✔ Stored diagnostic codes such as P0601, P0606, or U0100.
- ✔ Failing a state emissions inspection.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the 2015-2016 Colorado ECM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Our pre-programming service eliminates the most difficult step, saving you a trip to the dealership. Follow these general steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure the system is fully discharged.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2015-2016 Colorado and Canyon, the ECM is typically mounted on the passenger-side (RH) firewall in the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and gently pull them straight out from the module. Never force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and securely re-fasten it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new ECM until they click securely into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: In many cases, you may need to perform a simple key-cycle security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Consult your vehicle’s service information for the exact procedure. Start the engine and verify the Check Engine Light is off.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12692067, 12676230, 12656993, 12662034, 12672537, 12673195, 12663391, 12672963, and 12669318. It is guaranteed to fit the following GM vehicles, but please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure perfect compatibility.
CANYON 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.6L
ATS 14 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 12656993
ATS 15 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.6L
ATS 16 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.6L, VIN Y (8th digit, opt LF4)
CAMARO 16 Electronic Control Module; 6.2L
CORVETTE 14-16 Electronic Control Module; (RH cowl under dash)
CTS 14-15 Electronic Control Module; Sdn, 3.6L
CTS 16 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L, VIN 8 (8th digit, opt LF3)
CTS 16 Electronic Control Module; 6.2L
XTS 14-16 Electronic Control Module; (3.6L), VIN 8 (8th digit, opt LF3)
ESCALADE & ESCALADE ESV 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 14-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12662034, 12672537, or 12673195
SUBURBAN 1500 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
TAHOE 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 14 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 15 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12662034, 12672537, or 12673195
SIERRA DENALI 1500 14-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SIERRA DENALI 1500 16 Electronic Control Module, (LH front engine compartment)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you need from me to program the ECM?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). We’ll handle the rest, ensuring the module is programmed with the latest GM software specific to your truck.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, for most vehicles. Because we program it to your VIN, it eliminates the need for expensive dealer tools. Some vehicles may require a simple, tool-free security relearn procedure that takes about 10-15 minutes. We can provide instructions for this.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty ECM (e.g., codes P0601, P0606), this part is the correct fix. It’s always best to have the vehicle properly diagnosed to ensure the ECM is the root cause of the problem before ordering.
Where do I find my VIN?
Your VIN can be found on a metal plate on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
What if I have a different part number?
This module is compatible with several part numbers listed in the description. If your part number isn’t on the list, please contact us with your VIN, and we will verify compatibility for you.